Sciatica is a condition caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, resulting in pain that radiates from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. Depending on the underlying cause, symptoms may include numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, or difficulty walking.

At Relief Orthopedics, we provide comprehensive orthopedic care focused on relieving nerve-related pain, restoring mobility, improving function, and helping patients recover through individualized, evidence-based treatment plans.

Conveniently located in the heart of Myeongdong, our clinic welcomes both local residents and international patients seeking expert orthopedic care in Seoul.

Relief Orthopedics

9, Namdaemun-ro 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, Korea

Common Sciatica Conditions We Treat

• Sciatica
• Lumbar radiculopathy
• Pinched sciatic nerve
• Herniated lumbar disc
• Bulging lumbar disc
• Degenerative disc disease
• Lumbar spinal stenosis
• Foraminal stenosis
• Piriformis syndrome
• Nerve root compression
• Chronic sciatic pain
• Recurrent sciatica
• Leg pain caused by nerve compression
• Lower back pain with radiating leg pain
• Lumbar nerve irritation

Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored

Sciatica symptoms often affect one side of the body and may gradually worsen without appropriate treatment.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain radiating from the lower back to the leg
• Buttock pain
• Sharp or burning leg pain
• Numbness in the leg or foot
• Tingling sensations
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty walking
• Pain while sitting for long periods
• Pain that worsens with coughing or sneezing
• Reduced mobility
• Foot weakness
• Difficulty standing for prolonged periods

Our Comprehensive Sciatica Treatments

Orthopedic Evaluation

Every treatment begins with a detailed orthopedic examination to identify the source of sciatic nerve irritation. X-rays, MRI, or other imaging studies may be recommended when necessary to evaluate the lumbar spine and surrounding structures.

Personalized Physical Therapy

Customized rehabilitation programs improve flexibility, strengthen core muscles, reduce nerve irritation, and restore normal movement patterns.

Manual Therapy

Hands-on orthopedic therapy helps improve spinal mobility, reduce muscle tightness, relieve joint stiffness, and support recovery.

Therapeutic Exercise Programs

Individualized exercise programs strengthen the core and lower back muscles while improving posture, spinal stability, and flexibility.

Posture & Movement Education

Our specialists provide guidance on proper lifting techniques, sitting posture, workplace ergonomics, and daily movement patterns to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Shockwave Therapy

In selected patients with associated muscular pain, shockwave therapy may help improve circulation, reduce soft tissue pain, and support rehabilitation.

Ultrasound-Guided Injections

Ultrasound-guided injections may be recommended for certain soft tissue conditions contributing to sciatic pain, allowing accurate medication delivery while minimizing injury to surrounding tissues.

Image-Guided Pain Management

For patients with persistent nerve compression or inflammation, image-guided procedures may reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and facilitate rehabilitation.

Why Choose Relief Orthopedics?

• Orthopedic specialists experienced in spine and nerve disorders
• Conservative treatment focused on relieving nerve pain
• Individualized rehabilitation programs
• Modern diagnostic equipment
• Advanced pain management
• International patient-friendly services
• English-speaking assistance
• Convenient Myeongdong location
• Transparent treatment recommendations
• Personalized follow-up care

Who Can Benefit?

Our treatments are suitable for:

• Office workers
• Remote workers
• Individuals with lumbar disc disorders
• Patients with chronic lower back pain
• Athletes
• Seniors
• Patients recovering from spinal injuries
• Individuals with nerve-related leg pain
• Travelers
• International patients seeking orthopedic care in Seoul

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, often resulting in radiating pain from the lower back through the buttock and into the leg.

What causes sciatica?

Common causes include herniated discs, lumbar spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, foraminal narrowing, piriformis syndrome, and other conditions that compress spinal nerve roots.

Can sciatica improve without surgery?

Yes. Most patients improve with rehabilitation, physical therapy, medications, therapeutic exercise, and image-guided injections when appropriate. Surgery is usually considered only when severe neurological deficits or persistent symptoms do not respond to conservative treatment.

Do I always need an MRI?

No. Many patients can be evaluated through a physical examination and medical history. MRI is recommended when nerve compression is suspected, symptoms are severe, or conservative treatment has not been effective.

Can exercise help sciatica?

Yes. Appropriate stretching and strengthening exercises help improve spinal stability, reduce nerve irritation, and support long-term recovery.

Are image-guided injections safe?

Yes. Image-guided procedures improve treatment accuracy by delivering medication precisely to the affected area while minimizing injury to surrounding tissues.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery depends on the underlying cause and severity. Mild cases often improve within several weeks, while chronic nerve compression may require several months of structured rehabilitation.

When should I seek immediate medical attention?

Seek immediate medical evaluation if sciatica is accompanied by significant leg weakness, loss of bowel or bladder control, saddle numbness, or rapidly worsening neurological symptoms.

Can sciatica return?

Yes. Without addressing contributing factors such as poor posture, weak core muscles, or spinal degeneration, symptoms may recur. Rehabilitation and lifestyle modifications help reduce the risk.

Can international patients receive treatment?

Yes. Relief Orthopedics welcomes international patients and provides comprehensive sciatica treatment for visitors, expatriates, and medical travelers in Seoul.